We woke in the midst of a beautiful vineyard a few miles north of Erie along the shore. We could see Erie one direction and grapes the other three. Nice place to stay.
Off to Buffalo to see Theodore Roosevelt Inauguration NHS. He succeeded McKinley who was assassinated. That’s two sites in a row on the subject. First, after finding a great spot in East Aurora, NY with Boondockers, we headed for Niagara Falls. We were warned about the expense, that it is better to see in Canada (but impossible to get there today) and other dire warnings. We were a bit hesitant however we headed out. It was on the other side of Buffalo but traffic was moderate. As we exited the Interstate Highway onto the Scenic Byway, we dropped to one lane and about 30 mph. The first spot we see is a parking area for the rapids with a spot left. We pull in and walk to the rapids. Turns out we are only a mile from the falls where parking is at least $10, so being frugal (be kind here) we walked. It was really fantastic. Fast moving water that was various shades of blue and green, white tops and waves increasing as we neared the falls. Then at the falls you are only a very few feet from the edge and not too many people. Lots more who payed to go on an overlook than were on the point where we were. We watched boats in the mist, people down on the rocks and the water pouring over the edge. All in all pretty neat. Then back to the car and back through Buffalo to the Roosevelt site. We were not able to go into the house so, photos from the grounds will have to cover park number 301.
Very interesting meal in East Aurora. Our host, Russ, told us about roast beef sandwiches here that are served on Weck Bread. We got one, split it and were stuffed for dinner. It was really good. The Weck is a kind of kaiser roll with kosher salt and caraway seeds. A Western NY speciality and Bar-Bills Tavern is considered the best in Buffalo.
The American Falls
Some of the rapids on the way to the falls
The home in Buffalo where Roosevelt was visiting when he was sworn in as President following McKinely’s assassination.
Update Cadillac - where, what and with whom — for his fans
As you might expect it did not take long for others to line up. Why just today I endorsed my second President, (and not a fat, unpleasant cat, either) someone named Roosevelt. The accolades just keep rolling in - wondering when the next roles will as well. Seems like I would be hearing from my agent. I will get my PA to take a memo and send off a letter expressing my concern. Also the driver seems to have forgotten the Endorsement Party he was promising. Not much is unfolding as I expect. Not fitting a Star Moose, not at all.